Muscle Memory & Stress

1 month ago By Yogi Anoop

Muscle Memory and Stress Management: A Balanced Perspective

          According to my experience, the tendencies of contraction (sympathetic) and relaxation (parasympathetic) are innately present in this body and mind. After fatigue due to tension, the body naturally attempts to move into a state of relaxation, as seen during deep sleep. For instance, the act of opening (action) and closing (relaxation) the eyelids is an involuntary process. It is ingrained in the nature of the body.

Similarly, each organ in this body functions in accordance with this rhythm. The observer of the body and mind also aligns with this inherent tendency because involuntary actions are perceived as natural. The “house” the observer experiences inevitably influences its perception.

Based on this, even when the mind performs voluntary actions, it operates within the same principle of voluntary and involuntary processes. For instance, when someone focuses their eyes intently, after a while, the eyes themselves indirectly signal the need to relax by lowering the eyelids. In other words, the individual trains themselves to act according to the body’s natural tendencies; otherwise, the organ will not cooperate for long.

Ultimately, it is evident that even the mind must function in alignment with the body’s nature. This means the mind, too, must train itself through contraction and relaxation.

The Origin of the Problem

The issue arises because, from childhood, the mind is conditioned to train the body predominantly in tension. As a result, the muscles retain a higher memory of contraction. Over time, this tension becomes embedded in the muscles as a natural state. This occurs because there is a significant lack of relaxation in the muscles, leading to the onset of diseases.

In such a situation, the mind cannot remain content with the memory stored in the body. The lack of contentment eventually leads to the manifestation of mental illnesses, both directly and indirectly, over the years.

The main challenge arises when the habitual tension in the muscles causes the mind to become restless and exhausted. The mind starts to feel drained. Note that the energy of the mind is derived from two sources:

1.The memory of tension and relaxation in the body’s muscles.

2.The soul, which governs the mind.

If the soul gains awareness, it can rectify the changes in muscle memory. That is, the inherent relaxation in the muscles can be reawakened through cognitive practice. However, this requires knowledge.

While rest after fatigue is easy to attain, such rest does not last long. Rest attained through awareness, however, becomes eternal and unbreakable. This is what I call complete health.

In daily life, to alleviate stress, the mind is often diverted to another place or subject, allowing the tensed muscles to relax. This process is akin to catching a small animal that struggles to escape. Similarly, when the body’s muscles are held in tension, they become more strained. Stress will only dissipate when we learn the art of letting go. Learning this art requires knowledge. Only with knowledge can practice be effective; otherwise, practice is futile.

Mindfulness and Techniques for Stress Relief

Mindfulness is the state where you maintain control over your body and mind in real time. For example, during a conversation, ensure that your jaw, eyes, forehead, or voice are not strained. Experience the relaxation that comes even momentarily as you move about.

It is also important to pay attention to the choice of words and sentences. The use of controlled and calm language is a part of mindfulness. Through mindfulness, muscle relaxation can be achieved quickly. If you have a tendency to increase stress, it becomes essential to learn two key techniques:

1.Real-Time Stress Relief

As soon as you feel stress, immediately attempt to release it. This can be done through breathing techniques or simple, effortless activities.

2.Mind Switching and Diversion

Teach your mind to switch from one activity to another. This process helps relieve the brain and reduces stress. Along with this, practice yoga, pranayama, and meditation under the guidance of a knowledgeable teacher. This will help you uncover and experience the mysteries of life that you have not yet realized.

Prioritising Relaxation for Stress Management

It is crucial to prioritise the habit of muscle relaxation for effective stress management. If this cannot be achieved through personal practice, external aids may be used. For instance, modern science offers various medications to calm the brain. However, stress has its limits—excessive stress can tear the walls of muscles and blood vessels.

Understanding the art of balance between contraction and relaxation is essential for achieving lasting health and well-being. Only through knowledge and conscious practice can this balance be restored, ensuring both mental and physical harmony.

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